Menopause Flashcards
What is menopause?
The time in a woman’s life when menstrual periods stop permanently
What is the average age of menopause?
51 years old
What ages are defined as premature, early and late menopause?
Premature - <40 yrs
Early - 40-45 yrs
Late - >54 yrs
Give some of the effects of oestrogen
Secondary sexual characteristics
Bone growth
Endometrium proliferation
Give some causes of raised FSH and LH
Prior to ovulation
Stopping OCP/depoprovera
Breastfeeding
Medication
What are the common physical symptoms of menopause?
Hot flushes Night sweats Palpitations Insomnia Joint aches Headaches
What is the main physical symptom of menopause?
Hot flushes
Give some psychological symptoms of menopause
Mood swings Irritability Anxiety Difficulty concentrating Forgetfulness
What occurs in perimenopausal dysfunctional uterine bleeding?
Unopposed oestrogen causes growth of the uterine lining and irregular bleeding
What can be used to treat menorrhagia?
Mefenamic acid Tranexamic acid Progesterones IUS Endometrial ablation/hysterectomy
What is the main treatment for menopause?
Hormone replacement therapy
Give some benefits of hormone replacement therapy
Improved symptom control
Reduced osteoporotic fracture risk
Reduced bowel cancer risk
Give some risks of hormone replacement therapy
VTE
Breast cancer
Stroke
Gallbladder disease
Give some non-HRT methods of treating menopause
Clonidine
SSRIs
Regelle
